Queen Victoria Statue at Kensington Palace Gardens
A majestic marble statue by Princess Louise honors Queen Victoria’s youth and legacy outside her birthplace, Kensington Palace.
The Queen Victoria Statue in Kensington Palace Gardens is a striking white marble sculpture depicting Queen Victoria at age 18 in her coronation robes. Created by her daughter Princess Louise and unveiled in 1893 to mark Victoria's Golden Jubilee, it stands prominently outside Kensington Palace, the monarch's birthplace and childhood home. The statue symbolizes Victoria’s long reign and deep connection to the palace, enduring wartime damage and restorations over the years.
A brief summary to Queen Victoria Statue
- Kensington Palace Gardens, London, W8 4PU, GB
- +443000612000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon for softer light that enhances the statue’s details and the palace gardens’ atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Kensington Palace’s State Apartments and the Sunken Garden for a fuller royal experience.
- Look closely to see the subtle repairs on the statue’s nose, a testament to its survival through World War II.
- Explore the nearby statues and memorials in Kensington Gardens to appreciate the area’s rich commemorative landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Circle or District Line to High Street Kensington station. From there, it is a 15-minute walk through Kensington Gardens to Kensington Palace and the Queen Victoria Statue. The station is well-served with trains every 3-5 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground pricing applies.
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Bus
Bus routes 70 and 328 stop near Kensington Palace Gardens. From the nearest stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the statue. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares payable by Oyster card or contactless payment, typically under £2.50.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Kensington Palace Gardens typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £10-£20. Drop-off is available nearby, but parking is limited.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking through Kensington Gardens to the statue is a pleasant 10-20 minute stroll on paved paths. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Queen Victoria Statue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Queen Victoria Statue
A Regal Tribute Sculpted by Royal Hands
The Queen Victoria Statue at Kensington Palace Gardens is a remarkable marble sculpture portraying Queen Victoria as a young woman of 18, seated in her coronation robes with crown and scepter. It was designed and sculpted by her fourth daughter, Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, who was an accomplished artist and feminist. Commissioned by the Kensington Golden Jubilee Memorial Executive Committee to celebrate Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887, the statue took several years to complete and was unveiled by the Queen herself on 28 June 1893. Its creation within the palace grounds and the personal involvement of Princess Louise add a unique royal intimacy to this landmark.Historical and Personal Significance
Queen Victoria was born Alexandrina Victoria at Kensington Palace in 1819 and lived there until she ascended the throne in 1837 at age 18. The statue captures her youthful image at the moment she became queen, a pivotal event that took place within these very walls. Victoria’s reign, known as the Victorian Era, spanned 63 years and was marked by vast industrial, political, and cultural changes that shaped modern Britain. The statue stands as a lasting symbol of her legacy and the palace’s importance as her birthplace and childhood home.Location and Surroundings
Situated in front of Kensington Palace, the statue commands attention near the main entrance, framed by the palace’s garden facade. Kensington Palace itself remains a residence for members of the Royal Family and is partially open to the public, including the State Apartments and the Sunken Garden. The statue’s placement offers visitors a majestic introduction to the palace grounds, connecting the royal history with the serene beauty of Kensington Gardens.Endurance Through Time and Conflict
During World War II, the statue sustained damage when shrapnel removed its nose. This was first repaired in 1952 and restored again in 2012 for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Despite these restorations, the statue retains visible marks of its resilience, symbolizing the endurance of the monarchy through turbulent times. In 1969, it was granted Grade II listed status, recognizing its cultural and historic importance.Artistic and Cultural Legacy
The statue is not only a royal monument but also an artistic achievement, reflecting the skill and vision of Princess Louise. It draws inspiration from Sir George Hayter’s portrait of the Queen in her coronation robes and stands as a rare example of a royal family member commemorating another through sculpture. A bronze casting of the statue also exists in Montreal, Canada, illustrating its international significance.Visiting and Appreciating the Statue
Visitors to Kensington Palace Gardens can admire the statue’s fine craftsmanship and regal presence while exploring the rich history of the palace. Nearby attractions include the Queen’s and King’s State Apartments, the Jewel Room, and the Sunken Garden with the Diana, Princess of Wales statue. The statue offers a contemplative moment to reflect on Queen Victoria’s enduring impact on British history and culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kensington War Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Speke Monument
0.6 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Edward Jenner Memorial
0.9 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Space Apart Hotel
1.1 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
George Orwell Plaque
1.1 km
A literary landmark on vibrant Portobello Road celebrating George Orwell’s enduring legacy in London’s cultural heart.
Sussex Gardens
1.1 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.2 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.3 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
St Peter's Church, Notting Hill
1.4 km
A serene Victorian Anglican church blending classical architecture, rich history, and community spirit in the heart of Notting Hill.
The Old Police House
1.5 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
37 Thurloe St
1.5 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
1.5 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
Queen Victoria Monument
1.6 km
A majestic tribute to Queen Victoria, blending imperial grandeur with rich symbolism in the heart of London’s royal landscape.
Thin House
1.6 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty of Thin House in South Kensington, a must-see tourist attraction in London showcasing history and charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kensington Palace
0.1 km
Discover centuries of royal history and serene gardens at Kensington Palace, a majestic London landmark and former home to British monarchs.
Round Pond
0.2 km
Historic ornamental lake in Kensington Gardens, home to model yachts and diverse wildlife, set against the iconic backdrop of Kensington Palace.
Kensington Palace Green
0.3 km
A peaceful royal garden oasis beside Kensington Palace, blending lush greenery with centuries of British history in central London.
Diana Memorial Playground
0.4 km
A magical, inclusive Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering imaginative play and adventure for children of all abilities.
Kensington Gardens
0.5 km
Explore Kensington Gardens, a royal London oasis blending historic grandeur, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly adventures across 265 acres of green space.
Kensington High St
0.5 km
Discover Kensington High Street, a stylish London shopping street blending luxury boutiques, popular brands, gourmet dining, and cultural charm near Kensington Gardens.
Notting Hill Bike tours
0.6 km
Discover London’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods on a safe, fun, and engaging bike tour through Notting Hill and beyond.
QUEENS skate dine bowl
0.6 km
London’s oldest year-round ice rink, bowling lanes, and vibrant dining combine for nonstop fun at QUEENS Skate Dine Bowl on Queensway.
The Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.7 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Clanricarde Gardens
0.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Clanricarde Gardens, a hidden gem in London, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in the bustling city.
Serpentine Gallery
0.8 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
Royal Albert Hall
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Lancaster Gate
0.8 km
Elegant Victorian terraces bordering Hyde Park, offering tranquil sophistication and superb access to London’s cultural heart.
Imperial Cinema
0.8 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Essential places to dine
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.4 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.4 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Alexandrie Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Grato
0.6 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Dishoom Kensington
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
0.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
0.6 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
The Shed
0.7 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.2 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
Il Portico
1.2 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
The Ladbroke Arms
1.2 km
A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.3 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
Gold
1.4 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Core by Clare Smyth
1.4 km
Experience three-Michelin-starred modern British cuisine by Clare Smyth in an elegant Notting Hill setting, where sustainability meets culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kensington Palace Shop
0.1 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Good
0.5 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
London Souvenir Kensington
0.5 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Jigsaw
0.5 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
The London Shop
0.7 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Notting hill store
0.9 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
1.0 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Appletree boutique
1.0 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.0 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
the Design Museum Shop
1.2 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Science Museum Shop
1.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.2 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.3 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
1.3 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piano Kensington
0.3 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Stables Bar
0.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
0.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
0.5 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
0.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Builders Arms
0.7 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Bar 190
0.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
0.9 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Sun In Splendour
1.0 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.4 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
The Dickens Tavern
1.4 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Walmer Castle
1.4 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.4 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
